IMPORTING EXCELLENCE
Here are some new CHL talents to watch, via the Import Draft:
1. ANDREI SVECHNIKOV BARRIE (OHL)
A potential No. 1 overall pick in 2018, Svechnikov was already in North America playing in the USHL. Now he’ll bring his ultra-skilled power forward game to the rebuilding Colts, and he’ll be joined by an import pick from last year, Lightning prospect Alexei Lipanov – his international center.
2. FILIP ZADINA HALIFAX (QMJHL)
A consistently dangerous performer for the Czechs, the top-end 2018 prospect takes his talents to the ‘Q,’ where opponents will face his non-stop motor. The Mooseheads are masters of the Import Draft.
3. ALEXEI TOROPCHENKO GUELPH (OHL)
Drafted by the Blues 113th overall in June, Toropchenko is a big dude with offensive upside. Add him to a rebuilding roster that also includes Sharks prospect Isaac Ratcliffe and 2018 draft-eligible Ryan Merkley and the Storm appears to be surging.
4. ALEXANDER KHOVANOV MONCTON (QMJHL)
A player to watch in the 2018 draft, Khovanov brings a ton of skill and incredible patience with the puck to the Wildcats. His offensive exploits will be necessary for a team that truly bottomed out this past season.
5. GILIAN KOHLER KOOTENAY (WHL)
The Ice wiped out on Klim Kostin last year, but rebounded this time around with Kohler, a highly skilled winger who is up for the 2018 draft. Kohler was one of the Swiss junior league’s leading scorers in 2016-17.